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Fungal infections, also known as mycoses, are caused by fungi that invade and colonize various tissues in the human body. These infections can range from mild and superficial to severe and life-threatening. This comprehensive overview will explore the different types of fungal infections, their symptoms, and management strategies.

Types of Fungal Infections

More commonly, patients tend to experience superficial fungal infections. This is in part contributed by the warm and humid tropical climate locally. Certain lifestyle and hobbies involving heavy physical exertion or medical conditions e.g. diabetes, may also contribute to fungal infections.

Superficial Fungal Infections (And its close mimics)

  1. Tinea Pedis (Athlete’s Foot): Affects the feet, causing itching, cracking, and scaling. N.B. This can be commonly mistaken for feet eczema. Ancillary testing may be required to differentiate the two conditions.
  2. Tinea Corporis (Ringworm): Circular, itchy lesions on the body. N.B. Psoriasis can sometimes be a close consideration. Topical steroidal treatments, while beneficial for psoriasis treatment, may lead to a worsening of the rash.
  3. Tinea Capitis (Scalp Ringworm): Scalp infection causing hair loss and itching. N.B. This form of superficial fungal infection can be mistaken for both other infective causes (e.g. lice) or non inflammatory causes (e.g. Seborrhoeic dermatitis (a form of eczema affecting oilier parts of the body).
  4. Tinea Cruris (Jock Itch): Groin infection causing itching and redness. N.B. There are subset of inflammatory conditions e.g. psoriasis which can affect the folds. These subsets have an ‘inverse’ prefix e.g. inverse psoriasis, signifying its location over folds.
  5. Tinea Unguium (Onychomycosis): Fungal infection of the nails. N.B. There are different species of fungus, which one showing up as different appearances of nails. Fungal culture for proper identification and treatments are usually warranted for more targeted treatment.

Credit: American Family Physician (2013).

Subcutaneous Fungal Infections

As the name suggests, these are more deep seated fungal infections affecting the deeper parts of the skin (subcutis) and lymph hodes. A history of inoculation or cuts can sometimes preceded the development of fungal infection. Examples of such conditions are: Sporotrichosis (Infection caused by Sporothrix schenckii, affecting skin and lymph nodes.) and Chromoblastomycosis (Chronic infection affecting skin and subcutaneous tissue.)

Systemic Fungal Infections

  1. Candidemia: Bloodstream infection caused by Candida species
  2. Aspergillosis: Infection caused by Aspergillus species, affecting lungs and other organs
  3. Cryptococcosis: Infection caused by Cryptococcus neoformans, affecting lungs and central nervous system
  4. Histoplasmosis: Infection caused by Histoplasma capsulatum, affecting lungs and other organs

Management of Fungal Infections

Preventive Measures

  1. Good hygiene: Washing hands and affected areas regularly
  2. Dry skin: Keeping skin dry, especially between folds
  3. Avoid sharing personal items: Towels, clothing, and footwear
  4. Wear breathable clothing: Cotton and natural fibers

Pharmacological Management of fungal infections

There are 3 main classes of antifungals, with the use of topicals being the most common.

  1. Antifungal powders, creams and ointments: The choice of product texture and formulation recommended by your dermatologist takes into account lifestyle and preferences.
  2. Oral Treatments: Usually taken as a daily oral pill. They may have certain drug interactions with existing medications. Do inform your dermatologist should you have any other regular medications.
  3. Intravenous antifungals: Administered through the veins or injections, they are reserved for extremely ill patients.

Conclusion

Fungal infections are diverse and can affect various parts of the body. Understanding the types, symptoms, and management strategies is crucial for effective treatment and prevention. Consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

References

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Fungal Diseases.
  2. American Family Physician. (2013). Onychomycosis: Current trends in diagnosis and management.
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